Krakatau Volcano

Krakatau erupted in 1883, one of the most catastrophic natural events in recorded history. The volcano literally blew itself apart, sending a column of ash and stone 80 km, into the air. Ash fell on Singapore, and the entire region was covered in darkness for two days. The volcanic dust in the atmosphere circled the earth for three years, creating sensational sunsets.

At that very instant, Krakatau vanished as if devoured by the sea, causing formidable tidal waves which in turn swept off just about everything alive from the surrounding coastal areas. However, the disappearance of the gigantic Krakatau also meant the birth of small islands in its place, one of which is called Anak Krakatau or Krakatau's Child which is at present an extremely active young volcano. From both West Java's West Coast and from Sumatra's Lampung Province, this young and very active volcano is clearly visible. It is possible for boats to land on the Eastern Shore of this young volcano, and depending on recent activity, you can climb to the rim of the caldera. A boat trip to Anak Krakatau is worth the adventure.

Places To Eat
Bring along lunch and refreshments, as it is hot and there is no fresh water available on the island - all other supplies for the trip should be brought with you.

Where To Stay
There is no where to stay on Anak Krakatau but there are a variety of places to stay on the mainland, Carita Krakatau Beach, Anyer Beach, Mambruk, Merak Beach are some of the major hotels along the coastal area that are recommended.

Getting Around
To Krakatau. Boats may be chartered to the four uninhabited islands of the anak Krakatau from Labuan port. Arrangements can also be made through the hotels: Carita Krakatau Beach, Anyer Beach, Mambruk, Merak Beach and some other major hotels along the coastal area. As the trip takes four to five hours each way, the weather is hot and there is no fresh water out there. Boats may be chartered to the four uninhabited islands of the Krakatau group from Labuan (Anyer - West Java). The cost depends on the chartered boats, from small fishing craft up to a motorized fiberglass launch that can carry up to 10 people. Arrangement can be made through any hotels or at the port. Most visitors land at the eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb up to the top of the first ridge for a view into the smoking crater and across to the other three islands. The trip is not recommended during the rainy season, (November to March) when the seas are rough.

Activities And Attractions
Most visitors land at the eastern side of Anak Krakatau, climb up to the top of the first ridge for a view into the smoking crater and across to the other three islands. This is a good place for walking and taking photographs.

Lake Toba
Referred to as the centrepiece of North Sumatra Lake Toba offers beautiful scenery and a pleasant climate. Lake Toba is the largest lake in South East Asia measuring 100km in length; it is also one of the deepest and highest lakes in the world. The lake was formed after a prehistoric volcanic explosion; today the surrounding landscape is steep and fertile. Lake Toba has the island of Samosir situated in the centre of the lake and a regular ferry is available from the mainland to Samosir. Samosir is home to the hospitable tribe, Toba Batak and is well worth a visit, just to capture the traditions and culture of the tribe.

Where To Eat
High quality hotels can be found on the mainland at Prapat, many of which have restaurants serving European food. Leo's jazz blues restaurant & cafe (near Elsine GH & Hora's Homestay) offers video, pizzas & happy hour. Reggae bar (near Samosir & Anju cottages) boast a pool table. Tuk-Tuk and Samosir are littered with small cafes to larger more upscale restaurants. Explore, and you will not be dissapointed!

Where To Stay
Two star hotels and comfortable home stays can be found on the Island of Samosir.

Getting Around
Lake Toba is approximately 3 hours by road from Medan there is a frequent bus service that runs from Medan to Lake Toba and hired taxis available. If you are in Samosir and wish to go to Lake Toba there is a regular ferry service that will carry passengers and motorcycles. If you desire there are private speedboats for charter.

Activities
Lake Toba is a spectacular experience; it is a walker's paradise. There are a variety of tours available encompassing Samosir and the surrounding area. The ferry from the mainland to Samosir is a pleasant experience and a trip to Samosir provides an insight into the local Batak culture that resides on the island. If you're into photography Lake Toba is a good place to go and take some magnificent pictures.

Attractions

Batak Cultural Center
Lively and exciting dance and music performances are held here every Saturday night for a modest entrance fee; alternatively Prapat hotel has a similar cultural exhibition on their premises for tour groups. The week-long Lake Toba Festival is held annually in June, where alongside the song and dance, is the fascinating canoe race held by competing villages.